Core Insights - Stagwell has acquired a 35% stake in Real Clear Holdings LLC, which publishes RealClearPolitics and other news sites, reflecting its commitment to high-quality owned media and the belief in the commercial potential of journalism [1][2][3] Group 1: Investment and Strategy - The investment in RealClear is part of Stagwell's broader strategy to enhance its owned media platforms, including ReachTV, and is aligned with its Future of News initiative [1][2] - Stagwell's clients will gain access to RealClear's audience, op-ed aggregation, and polling capabilities, enhancing their marketing effectiveness [2][3] Group 2: Leadership Perspectives - Mark Penn, Stagwell's Chairman and CEO, emphasized that quality news can drive significant business results, indicating a strong belief in the value of quality journalism for businesses [3] - John McIntyre, CEO of Real Clear Holdings, expressed confidence in the partnership with Stagwell, highlighting the potential benefits for both audiences and stakeholders [4]

Core Insights - Stagwell expanded its Future of News initiative into the APAC region, hosting a summit in Singapore to unveil new research on news advertising [1][4] - The study involved nearly 10,000 respondents from Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and Vietnam, reinforcing the safety of brand advertising adjacent to quality news content [2][4] Research Findings - 74% of APAC adults are news readers, averaging 7.1 articles per day, with 21% identified as 'news junkies' who check news 7.2 times daily and read 9.4 articles [7] - The study found no brand safety concerns across key demographics, including News Junkies, Gen Z, Millennials, and university-educated adults [7] - Among highly educated respondents, purchase intent for brands advertising next to news articles on global politics and crime was 66%, compared to 64% for sports and 63% for business, indicating statistically insignificant differences [7] - For parents, purchase intent for brands advertising next to news articles on crime and entertainment was 77%, further supporting the safety of advertising in these contexts [7] Industry Perspectives - Mark Penn, Chairman and CEO of Stagwell, emphasized the critical role of trusted journalism in connecting brands with engaged audiences and enhancing business outcomes [4] - Kevin Huang, COO of South China Morning Post, highlighted the importance of brand suitability and the opportunity for brands to collaborate with trusted journalism to share authentic stories [6]